I have used Milwaukee almost exclusively. My sawzall was getting old and decided to try this one. It is much heavier than my Milwaukee but it sure does cut fast! Very smooth action and easy blade changes. I haven't used it very long yet, but so far I think it was a good investment.

We originally purchase was a Milwaukee 6538-21 15 Amp Super Sawzall Orbital Recip Saw. After exchanging with multiple replacement units as the switch appeared to be defective, it was brought to my attention from their Engineering Staff that the switch was not defective; it's an inherent design issue (flaw). Feel free to read my comments regarding that particular tool.

Due to the fact we (company) now owned both tools, I can give an honest opinion between the two. The two Milwaukee saws were returned as of the Makita's purchase.Nuts and bolts:1) Both tools are powerful and will get just about any job done there's a major design flaw with the Milwaukee variable speed control so if you're deciding between the two and controllability with variability is a concern, hands down, the Makita tool wins. THIS is the reason why the Milwaukee saws were returned for refund. Once again, read my Milwaukee 6538-21 review which posts a video of the issue as well. Don't ever plan to use the Milwaukee for say cutting aluminum trim where you need to start slow and controlled. For me, predictability and knowing that when I want to start a tool slow and steady, I can. Even changing the blade can be a challenge if you're trying to forward the motor to "stick-out" the blade lock for easier change.2) I prefer the swivel aspect of the Milwaukee tool. It's a nice benefits that in rare instances you need to rotate the blade 90 degrees (handle actually), it's there. This is one of those nice to have features but not mandatory. Some may look at this being negative (for those half empty folks), more moving parts to fail.3) There is a slight difference between vibration of the Makita saw (which its name implies "AVT, anti-vibration-technology"), it does live up to the name and is has a much smoother feel during use. If you're using it for long periods of time, this can be a life saver on your wrists and forearms, and in my case being almost 45 the beginnings of arthritis setting in! 4) Makita's placement of controls appears to have a better thought-out design and (in time) may be more durable. For example, the orbital slide-lever adjustment on the Milwaukee is plastic and sits at the top 12 o'clock position of the head. Makita's lever switch is recessed and on the side (easier to switch too). If you're wearing gloves, the Makita's switch will be easier to adjust. Due to location and design, Milwaukee's orbital switch is unprotected from objects hitting the slide-lever; I can see it breaking off rather easily. On a side note, the Milwaukee saw, I found it rather difficult to slide between positions with the two that I originally purchased.5) The Makita tool is slightly quieter (may be due to the fact the motor spins at a slightly slower rate.6) Milwaukee's warranty is better being 5 years vs. 1 year for Makita. I believe both would last a very long time under hard use so hopefully warranty work is not necessary for either tool. The fluffy comments: 1) I like the appearance of Milwaukee tools better...never been a fan of the Makita color. Not really a flaw...it's their identifying color.2) Milwaukee's case is blow-molded plastic; Makita's is sheet-formed metal. Which is better, that is a personal choice. A plastic case crack, metal bends and can be fixed. Metal cases you have to be more careful with if you're laying it on a surface that may scratch easier. They can be slightly heavier. The case size of the Makita's is larger which is MUCH nicer whereas adding accessories in the case vs. separately is a plus.In a nutshell, the Makita 1.24" AVT saw met all of needs, overall it's a better design and performs better due to the variable switch control.

Questions & Answers

Warranty

Warranty Information

Makita Standard Warranty

The Makita Standard Warranty applies to both new and factory-reconditioned Makita tools.
Every Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. If you are not satisfied with any Makita tool within 30 days of purchase, return it and Makita will provide a replacement or refund. Each Makita tool is warranted to be free of defects from workmanship and materials for the period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase. Should any trouble develop during this one-year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita's Factory or Authorized Service Centers.

If inspection shows the trouble is caused by defective workmanship or material, Makita will repair (or at its option, replace without charge).

This Warranty does not apply where:

Repairs have been made or attempted by others

Repairs are required because of normal wear and tear

The tool has been abused, misused or improperly maintained

Alterations have been made to the tool

In no event shall Makita be liable for any indirect, incidental or consequential damages from the sale or use of the product. This disclaimer applies to both during and after the term of this warranty. Makita disclaims liability for any implied warranties, including implied warranties of "merchantability" and "fitness" for a specific purpose, after the one-year term of this warranty.
This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.

"This is the third time we have made a purchase with Tyler Tool and every time has been a good experience. Good products, good prices, fast shipping and good email communication are all a part of the Tyler Tool experiences. Buy with confidence." -Gene B.

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